HSV suffers loss in front of a historically large away spectatorship - HSV suffers historic loss in extraordinary encircling matches
On July 12, 2025, Hamburg SV (HSV) faced FC Copenhagen in a friendly match, marking a historical rivalry between the two teams. With HSV leading the head-to-head record with two wins out of three meetings, including a close 1-0 victory in their last encounter in 2005, the anticipation was high for this pre-season preparatory game [1].
The match, part of HSV's build-up for the 2025/26 competitive season, saw the integration of new signings such as Argentinian midfielder Nicolas Capaldo, who was expected to add muscle and creativity to the midfield [2]. FC Copenhagen, on the other hand, entered the game with a patchy pre-season form, having played seven friendlies with one win, three draws, and three losses. Their home games during the current friendly season had seen high goal exchanges, but only one victory at home, indicating some attacking challenges [1].
Pre-match analyses suggested a balanced contest with a likelihood of a draw or narrow win for either side based on historical data and current form [1][4]. However, the specific result of the friendly on July 12, 2025, between the two teams is not explicitly stated in the sources.
The fixture was a valuable fan engagement opportunity, with both clubs holding strong football traditions and enjoying passionate support. The match took place in the Copenhagen Parken Stadium against the Danish champions, and HSV was accompanied by 8,000 traveling fans [2]. The fan group of Hamburg, under the motto "All in Blue," called for a trip to Copenhagen [3]. Fans of both clubs met in the city and went to the stadium together, creating a vibrant atmosphere [4].
Notable players on the FC Copenhagen team included Youssoufa Moukoko and Thomas Delaney [5]. The game had to be paused for several minutes in the first half due to smoke caused by fireworks, but the break did little to dampen the excitement [6].
Despite the integration of new players like Ryan Philippe, Nicolai Remberg, and Jordan Torunarigha, who started in the lineup, coach Merlin Polzin did not use new signing Nicolas Capaldo in the match, as he was still recovering from a toe fracture and late arrival from South America [2].
In a surprising turn of events, Hamburg SV lost its record friendly against FC Copenhagen with a score of 0-1 (0-1) [7]. This was the first defeat of HSV in the third preparation match, a result that can be attributed to FC Copenhagen's strategic preparations and the massive support from their home fans [1][4]. Victor Froholdt missed a penalty for FC Copenhagen, but the missed opportunity did little to affect the final outcome [8].
Never before had so many fans supported HSV at a friendly, a testament to the fan friendship that began in the 2005/2006 season [9]. Despite the defeat, the match showcased tactical preparations without notable penalty shootouts, while both teams aimed to build momentum for their respective upcoming seasons [1][2][4][5].
The unexpected loss by Hamburg SV, with a score of 0-1, could potentially serve as catalyst for further community aid and research and development in the team's strategies for the upcoming 2025/26 season, particularly focusing on midfield reinforcements, such as Argentinian midfielder Nicolas Capaldo. Meanwhile, football enthusiasts across Europe, including those in the European-leagues and the Premier-League, commemorated this friendly match between Hamburg SV and FC Copenhagen, showcasing the vibrant sports community and the enduring passion for football.
